Set the line cleats at about 1/3rd the length of the guy ropes. Set the pegs so that the ropes are taut. Then pull the cleats out to whatever position gives you reasonable snugness. Very easy to use and they do not slip.
You're only supposed to push the poles halfway into the sleeves - then you hold the pole and pull the sleeve the rest of the way onto the pole and seat the foot into the cup. Hilleberg specifically points this out as the proper method, otherwise you run the risk of damaging the sleeve material (as you've mentioned was your concern). Hope this helps.
Thank you Joanne, you’re absolutely correct. I’ve now adopted that method and I’m a happy chappy. The tent is still going strong and I love it. Cheers for watching 👍
Thank you :-). Appreciate you watching the clip. And yes, I’m still enjoying the Hilliberg, going away for another trip in 3 weeks time, getting excited!
I had a Terra Nova porch tarp that I used with a previous tent and found it ideal for use with the Niak. It allows the entrance door to be unzipped to enhance ventilation ,even whilst it is raining,whilst preventing rainfall from entering the tent.
Great vid and review too, I have the Soulo and that one goes up similar to your Vaude one by the sounds of it. Niak is a really interesting design, it looks like your going to have some awesome trips with it, hope you get used to the sleeve poles, I'm sure your right about being able to push them through firmly. Anyway great vid super location subbed :) Tim
Thank you Tim! It’s nice to get a comment from a very credible UA-camr like yourself! You have many great vids yourself and many happy subscribers. Cheers Tim, appreciate you watching the clip :-)
Hey Paul, wow what a windy trip. I think even if you took a guitar and the Katana Air it would have been difficult to hear it with the wind noise... lol I had a tent of similar design and had the same problem pushing the poles through the sleeves. Used that tent for 15 years and passed it on the my son who has been using it for the last 10 years and it's still around. But, it started life as a brown tent and now it's more of a light tan. lol You had a beautiful site to set up but, windy. Awesome trip, the only part I didn't understand was the last bit where you got in the wrong side of the car to drive!! ;) Cheers!
Thanks Stefan. Yeah, I go camping quite a bit, and I’m always a bit reluctant to post NON-guitar related vids incase it dilutes my channel and loses me subscribers.... But maybe I should relax that a little and post footage from my next trip... Might be appropriate to call it “Escape from Lockdown” 🤣. Glad you liked my vid 👍
I haven´t used the Niak Before but I have an Allak and that has three poles. The way I do it is to insert the three poles while the tent is still flat on the ground and when that´s done I rise the first pole and insert it into the cup. The other poles will follow and only need to be inserted into their cups. It´s quick and never snags.
Hi, thanks for doing this vid. It looks a great fairly lightweight tent to me. Another reviewer (Norwegian) mentioned three things he ultimately got fed up with with the Niak, and I wondered whether you’ve had the same experience in Scotland? It was a) midges/bugs inside the outer tent via the vents, b) rain entering vestibule if you leave front zip open at the top for extra ventilation, and c) the killer for him was struggling to reach across to the zipper at the bottom of the vestibule to open it and getting his sleeve soaked by condensation on the inside surface of the door. Cheers!
Hi Peter, sorry for late reply. Yes, I think I know the Norwegian reviewer you’re referring to. As regards (a) bugs / midges between the outer and inner tent? I’ve never had a 4 season tent whose fly sheet extends all the way to the ground before.... so the Niak is no worse for bugs than any other similar 3 season design. The bugs and midges cannot get into the inner, so that’s all that matters to me. (b) rain entering the vestibule.... I dare say that WOULD happen.... and so it’s never occurred to me to tempt fate in that way. I’ve always kept the front zip shut at the top overnight (or if it’s raining). And (c)... yes, I’d agree with that one, so I’m kinda careful as I reach far forward for the zipper. Overall, I’m very happy with my Niak. I’ve used it loads and love it’s robustness, it’s fairly small footprint (as level spots of ground are hard to find), and it’s lightweight. Hope this helps.
@@paulstaffordcook8799 that’s a great help, thank you! I might also use it for bicycle camping with my folding Brompton. Do you think there is space in the vestibule for it? It stands 25cm deep, 55cm long snd 60cm high. Of course, it could go outside, or inside with some of the inner tent rolled back, but I’d much prefer to not have to do that. In fact do you find the vestibule useful? Cheers
Yes, I’m pretty confident you could get your those dimensions inside the vestibule AND zip it shut. Note however, that I’d describe the vestibule as “perfectly adequate” rather than roomy. I can easily store my big 85L rucksack, boots and a bag of cooking gear in the vestibule, and still get it zipped shut, (albeit with a slight bulge to the outside of the tent ). The vestibule on something like a Hilleberg Soulo is certainly more generous though. But yes, I’m confident you’d get your folded Brompton bike tucked inside that vestibule 👍. Another advantage to the Niak is that, despite being best suited to one person, it’s a roomy one man that can easily accommodate two at a push. This allows me to sleep well away from either tent wall, improving my chances of keeping my sleeping bag dry and unaffected by any condensation.
@@paulstaffordcook8799 thanks. I presume you can still move in and out through the vestibule with the 85l bag etc sitting there, so my bike wouldn’t stop me getting out for a pee at night?! 😜 Yes the taller bathtub sides must also make it less likely to get condensation on bedding than in a red label tent I imagine. Sounds a great tent! If you’re stuck inside on a wet day can you look outside eg by opening bottom half of vestibule and propping it open without inner tent getting wet?
Thank you Stefan! Delighted you like my video. Yes, I’m still really enjoying my Niak! It’s holding up beautifully, no issues, and would thoroughly recommend it. It’s just a lovely balance of light, strong, spacious, ventilated etc. Cheers Stefan
Thanks for watching my video Tom, and for your tips on the guy lines. I’m pleased to report that all is going well with the tent. No problems and very happy to be keeping this tent for a long time. You mention Soulo (4 season) v’s Niak (3 season).... yes, that was my exact debate up to the point of purchase. To be honest, you can’t go wrong with either. I went for the weight saving of the Niak. I’m sure I’d have also been delighted with the Soulo. All the best 👍
My Grandfather lived near Bunessan and I had many holidays over on Mull, including the wettest night in a tent ever. Where did you pitch the tent on this video?
Thanks for watching my wee video Jack. Man, I can’t wait to go back to Mull! I bet you have lots of fond memories from such a wild place. I think the Sea Eagles that were released many years ago on Rum had the right idea, in that they all buggered off to Mull 🤣
Now that's not a cheap tent.. You are in ray mears territory with that little number. And how has it been ? Haha did you seek help for your "tent stroking " problem ?😂😂😂 but Paul where was the coffee making close ups...There's always coffee making close ups in camping/bushcraft films ..steady the ship and get the kettle on lad !! 😂😂 great stuff .
Ha ha, you’re right about the coffee making 🤣. I watch more than my fair share of camping videos and I can’t believe I didn’t do the coffee making close up! But yes, great tent, I’m still enjoying it, it’s such a quality item. I’m sure it’ll last me for years and years.
Are you using Tyvek as a groundsheet? If so, buy some tyvek tape (like packaging tape) and buy four feet of 1/8” shock cord. Cut into four 1footers. Tie a knot on one end, tape to corner of groundsheet. Tie a loop in the other end and place over ground stakes... errr I mean pegs! 😎
Hello Paul Cook! Nice to talk to someone with such a cool name 🤣. Well I’m pleased to report that I love my Niak, and have used it probably 25 times since this video. As regards a 6’4” Paul Cook.... hmm, I’m 5’11” and I’ve no issues, despite sleeping on a fairly thick Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm max. I probably have 2 or 3 inches spare. But I would imagine that you might have to sleep diagonally if you didn’t want your hair brushing the fabric.... As to the tent’s performance.... it’s great. It’s not claustrophobic, doesn’t lend itself to condensation (except in extremely wet and windless environments), and very strong. Gives me the impression it’ll last for years and years. Of course I’m very careful with it and dry it thoroughly between trips etc. I considered a Soulo, which I’m sure I’d also have been delighted with. But the Niak is lighter, so I’m super happy with it. Hope this info helps. 👍
Hi I have a Soulo and a Tarra i totally love the feel of them too. I do most of my camping in the north of Scotland as i live in Orkney. I would recommend these pegs from eBay item number:301765999061. They are by far the best in strong winds. I have never had one pull out as they can loosen in mud but keep holding no matter what. I think i know where you were camped. Spent a lot of time in Mull 25 years ago. Cheers.
Set the line cleats at about 1/3rd the length of the guy ropes. Set the pegs so that the ropes are taut. Then pull the cleats out to whatever position gives you reasonable snugness. Very easy to use and they do not slip.
You're only supposed to push the poles halfway into the sleeves - then you hold the pole and pull the sleeve the rest of the way onto the pole and seat the foot into the cup. Hilleberg specifically points this out as the proper method, otherwise you run the risk of damaging the sleeve material (as you've mentioned was your concern). Hope this helps.
Thank you Joanne, you’re absolutely correct. I’ve now adopted that method and I’m a happy chappy. The tent is still going strong and I love it. Cheers for watching 👍
"I can't stop stroking it", that made me laugh! I know exactly the feeling!
🤣. Cheers Pierre
Just purchased the Niak. Thank you for the authentic rundown...adorably presented 🤗
Ah, thank you kattidee, delighted you took the plunge. I’m certainly still enjoying mine, having done dozens of camps now. Enjoy your purchase 👍
Watch the Hilleberg setup video. It will show you exactly how to set up your tent.
Thanks man, just watched it. Very helpful :-)
Very nice film. Great tents, best money can buy.
Thank you :-). Appreciate you watching the clip. And yes, I’m still enjoying the Hilliberg, going away for another trip in 3 weeks time, getting excited!
Enjoyed your CAMPING video, a wee bit concerned about the tent touching!?! Perhaps we should have called you Chandler! Great views!*
I had a Terra Nova porch tarp that I used with a previous tent and found it ideal for use with the Niak.
It allows the entrance door to be unzipped to enhance ventilation ,even whilst it is raining,whilst preventing rainfall from entering the tent.
I’ve just googled it.... yeah, that looks ideal!
Great vid and review too, I have the Soulo and that one goes up similar to your Vaude one by the sounds of it. Niak is a really interesting design, it looks like your going to have some awesome trips with it, hope you get used to the sleeve poles, I'm sure your right about being able to push them through firmly. Anyway great vid super location subbed :) Tim
Thank you Tim! It’s nice to get a comment from a very credible UA-camr like yourself! You have many great vids yourself and many happy subscribers. Cheers Tim, appreciate you watching the clip :-)
Great tent, lovely accent! (I lived in Inverness for a while). Greetings from Sweden 😊
Thank you Mattias 😊. And greetings to you in Sweden - I’ve never been but my wife and I have it on our list 🤞
Hey Paul, wow what a windy trip. I think even if you took a guitar and the Katana Air it would have been difficult to hear it with the wind noise... lol I had a tent of similar design and had the same problem pushing the poles through the sleeves. Used that tent for 15 years and passed it on the my son who has been using it for the last 10 years and it's still around. But, it started life as a brown tent and now it's more of a light tan. lol You had a beautiful site to set up but, windy. Awesome trip, the only part I didn't understand was the last bit where you got in the wrong side of the car to drive!! ;) Cheers!
Thanks Bill, delighted to hear your tent is still going strong! That kinda puts my mind at rest on the “poles through the sleeves” thing :-)
Hey Paul, when do we see another video on tour? Love that landscape 👍🏼
Thanks Stefan. Yeah, I go camping quite a bit, and I’m always a bit reluctant to post NON-guitar related vids incase it dilutes my channel and loses me subscribers.... But maybe I should relax that a little and post footage from my next trip... Might be appropriate to call it “Escape from Lockdown” 🤣. Glad you liked my vid 👍
I haven´t used the Niak Before but I have an Allak and that has three poles. The way I do it is to insert the three poles while the tent is still flat on the ground and when that´s done I rise the first pole and insert it into the cup. The other poles will follow and only need to be inserted into their cups. It´s quick and never snags.
Thank you Micke, I will try that. Appreciate you watching the clip 😀
Loved it again!
Thanks F MK! All got a bit weird with the “tent stroking”, but hey that’s what beer and wine does to you :-)
Hi, thanks for doing this vid. It looks a great fairly lightweight tent to me. Another reviewer (Norwegian) mentioned three things he ultimately got fed up with with the Niak, and I wondered whether you’ve had the same experience in Scotland? It was a) midges/bugs inside the outer tent via the vents, b) rain entering vestibule if you leave front zip open at the top for extra ventilation, and c) the killer for him was struggling to reach across to the zipper at the bottom of the vestibule to open it and getting his sleeve soaked by condensation on the inside surface of the door. Cheers!
Hi Peter, sorry for late reply. Yes, I think I know the Norwegian reviewer you’re referring to. As regards (a) bugs / midges between the outer and inner tent? I’ve never had a 4 season tent whose fly sheet extends all the way to the ground before.... so the Niak is no worse for bugs than any other similar 3 season design. The bugs and midges cannot get into the inner, so that’s all that matters to me. (b) rain entering the vestibule.... I dare say that WOULD happen.... and so it’s never occurred to me to tempt fate in that way. I’ve always kept the front zip shut at the top overnight (or if it’s raining). And (c)... yes, I’d agree with that one, so I’m kinda careful as I reach far forward for the zipper. Overall, I’m very happy with my Niak. I’ve used it loads and love it’s robustness, it’s fairly small footprint (as level spots of ground are hard to find), and it’s lightweight. Hope this helps.
@@paulstaffordcook8799 that’s a great help, thank you! I might also use it for bicycle camping with my folding Brompton. Do you think there is space in the vestibule for it? It stands 25cm deep, 55cm long snd 60cm high. Of course, it could go outside, or inside with some of the inner tent rolled back, but I’d much prefer to not have to do that. In fact do you find the vestibule useful? Cheers
Yes, I’m pretty confident you could get your those dimensions inside the vestibule AND zip it shut. Note however, that I’d describe the vestibule as “perfectly adequate” rather than roomy. I can easily store my big 85L rucksack, boots and a bag of cooking gear in the vestibule, and still get it zipped shut, (albeit with a slight bulge to the outside of the tent ). The vestibule on something like a Hilleberg Soulo is certainly more generous though. But yes, I’m confident you’d get your folded Brompton bike tucked inside that vestibule 👍. Another advantage to the Niak is that, despite being best suited to one person, it’s a roomy one man that can easily accommodate two at a push. This allows me to sleep well away from either tent wall, improving my chances of keeping my sleeping bag dry and unaffected by any condensation.
@@paulstaffordcook8799 thanks. I presume you can still move in and out through the vestibule with the 85l bag etc sitting there, so my bike wouldn’t stop me getting out for a pee at night?! 😜 Yes the taller bathtub sides must also make it less likely to get condensation on bedding than in a red label tent I imagine. Sounds a great tent! If you’re stuck inside on a wet day can you look outside eg by opening bottom half of vestibule and propping it open without inner tent getting wet?
Love to watch your video again and again. Very nice landscape.... and I also love the Niak 👍🏼. How has your experience been so far?
Thank you Stefan! Delighted you like my video. Yes, I’m still really enjoying my Niak! It’s holding up beautifully, no issues, and would thoroughly recommend it. It’s just a lovely balance of light, strong, spacious, ventilated etc. Cheers Stefan
I am waffling back and forth between getting the Soulo or the Niak.
Thanks for watching my video Tom, and for your tips on the guy lines. I’m pleased to report that all is going well with the tent. No problems and very happy to be keeping this tent for a long time. You mention Soulo (4 season) v’s Niak (3 season).... yes, that was my exact debate up to the point of purchase. To be honest, you can’t go wrong with either. I went for the weight saving of the Niak. I’m sure I’d have also been delighted with the Soulo. All the best 👍
My Grandfather lived near Bunessan and I had many holidays over on Mull, including the wettest night in a tent ever. Where did you pitch the tent on this video?
Sorry Paul, just read further down the comments. Great views. always windy there though.
Thanks for watching my wee video Jack. Man, I can’t wait to go back to Mull! I bet you have lots of fond memories from such a wild place. I think the Sea Eagles that were released many years ago on Rum had the right idea, in that they all buggered off to Mull 🤣
Now that's not a cheap tent.. You are in ray mears territory with that little number. And how has it been ? Haha did you seek help for your "tent stroking " problem ?😂😂😂 but Paul where was the coffee making close ups...There's always coffee making close ups in camping/bushcraft films ..steady the ship and get the kettle on lad !!
😂😂 great stuff .
Ha ha, you’re right about the coffee making 🤣. I watch more than my fair share of camping videos and I can’t believe I didn’t do the coffee making close up! But yes, great tent, I’m still enjoying it, it’s such a quality item. I’m sure it’ll last me for years and years.
Are you using Tyvek as a groundsheet? If so, buy some tyvek tape (like packaging tape) and buy four feet of 1/8” shock cord. Cut into four 1footers. Tie a knot on one end, tape to corner of groundsheet. Tie a loop in the other end and place over ground stakes... errr I mean pegs! 😎
Good idea! Think I’ll try that, because I haven’t come up with a solution thus far. Cheers David
Morning Paul - any updates on the Niak after two years of use. What would it be like for a 6'4'' Paul Cook :-) ?
Hello Paul Cook! Nice to talk to someone with such a cool name 🤣. Well I’m pleased to report that I love my Niak, and have used it probably 25 times since this video. As regards a 6’4” Paul Cook.... hmm, I’m 5’11” and I’ve no issues, despite sleeping on a fairly thick Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm max. I probably have 2 or 3 inches spare. But I would imagine that you might have to sleep diagonally if you didn’t want your hair brushing the fabric.... As to the tent’s performance.... it’s great. It’s not claustrophobic, doesn’t lend itself to condensation (except in extremely wet and windless environments), and very strong. Gives me the impression it’ll last for years and years. Of course I’m very careful with it and dry it thoroughly between trips etc. I considered a Soulo, which I’m sure I’d also have been delighted with. But the Niak is lighter, so I’m super happy with it. Hope this info helps. 👍
Awesome video =)
Thank you Fjellgutten! I’m still loving the Niak 👍😀
Near Ardmore point?
I was on the north west tip of Mull, so the view was across to Ardnamurchan point. Appreciate you watching my clip :-)
Hi I have a Soulo and a Tarra i totally love the feel of them too. I do most of my camping in the north of Scotland as i live in Orkney. I would recommend these pegs from eBay item number:301765999061. They are by far the best in strong winds. I have never had one pull out as they can loosen in mud but keep holding no matter what. I think i know where you were camped. Spent a lot of time in Mull 25 years ago. Cheers.
Thanks for watching Alan, appreciated. I will definitely consider these pegs you mention 😀
Relax man, just push the poles.
You’re right, I’ve since used the tent many times and I’m used to it now :-)